Review: TVS Apache RTR 180

TVS is still a few years from launching its new-generation Apache, so to keep the current crop of buyers from moving to the Pulsar 200NS, this facelift is their stop-gap measure.

So, there’s sporty bits like magnesium-finish suspension and brake calipers. And decals and fake carbon fibre panels sprinkled all over to further evoke racing aspirations.

If you want flashier paint jobs, we suggest you look at the lesser RTR 160 – the 180ABS is only available in black and white. If you chose the 180 over the 180ABS, there’s a grey option as well. Definitely the most talked-about feature on the RTR is the LED daytime running lights, which TVS has been flaunting in its commercials.

In the city, the existing horses are adequate and you’ll rarely find the 180 underpowered. Out on the highway, though, you immediately sense the need for a sixth gear. This not only limits the RTR’s top speed, it also affects highway cruising speed. When you hit the triple-digits and want to stay at a steady 110kph, the engine’s revving too high and sounds stressed.

We managed a top speed of 121kph on our run, which matches the older bike. The fuel run was also similar, with the 180 returning 34.6kpl. The RTR 180 ABS is pegged at Rs 82,000 (on-road Mumbai). That’s 4,000 more than the outgoing model, but given all those design revisions, you shouldn’t mind that price hike.